CBG is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. However, as a minor cannabinoid, this compound is often forgotten about — or simply not known at all. So, what is CBG good for? What does this unique cannabinoid do?
Below, we’ve discussed what CBG is in-depth, as well as other important factors like its legality, functionality, and versatility regarding different products.
What is CBG?
First, before we answer “What is CBG good for?” Let’s talk about what the cannabinoid is in the first place.
CBG, short for cannabigerol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in trace amounts within the cannabis plant — hence its classification as a “minor” cannabinoid.
Despite being a minor compound, CBG is often referred to as the mother of all cannabinoids.
This is because CBG’s precursor compound, CBGA, is actually the precursor to all other cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Let’s explain.
When the cannabis plant starts to grow, the first cannabinoid it develops during the growth phase is CBGA. Then, as the plant begins to flower and is exposed to different light cycles, CBGA begins to break down into two integral cannabinoids: THCA and CBDA.
If you didn’t already guess, THCA and CBDA are the cannabinoids that break down into THC and CBD: the two most prominent cannabinoids in the plant.
Thus, without CBG — and CBGA — the cannabis plant would be nothing like it is today.
Is CBG Legal?
Thankfully, CBG is 100% legal in the United States thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. Of course, this doesn’t come without regulations, though.
CBG and CBG products are only legal if they come from hemp and do not contain more than 0.3% THC by weight. As long as products follow these regulations, then hemp-derived CBG is legal all across the country.
Because of this, you’re able to purchase various high-quality CBG products online and have them shipped right to your door.
How Does CBG Work in the Body?
In order to understand “What is CBG good for?” you have to know how the cannabinoid functions. And CBG works in the body a little differently than your average non-psychoactive cannabinoid.
Cannabigerol works in the body primarily by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system that plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, or internal balance, in various biological processes.
Essentially, the ECS is composed of three main components: endocannabinoids (natural compounds produced by the body), receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that help synthesize and break down endocannabinoids.
CBG is thought to interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are distributed all throughout the body.
CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and are responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids like THC. On the other hand, CB2 receptors are mostly found in the immune system and peripheral tissues, playing a significant role in managing inflammation and pain.
Unlike THC, CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, which means it cannot get you high.
We don’t know for sure why this is the case, but it appears to have a weak affinity for CB1 receptors and a stronger affinity for CB2 receptors.
In addition to its interaction with the ECS, CBG has been found to interact with other non-cannabinoid receptors in the body, like TRPV channels.
What is CBG Good For?
Now, let’s answer the million-dollar question: what is CBG good for?
As a whole, research surrounding CBG is still relatively new, and we’re learning more about the cannabinoid every day.
However, here is what some preliminary research has to say about what CBG is good for.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
CBG has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in various studies and experimental trials.
Its action on the CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system is thought to contribute to these effects, as CB2 receptors play a significant role in managing inflammation.
This means that when people ask, “What is CBG good for?” You may be able to let them know that it could be helpful for reducing chronic aches and pains, as well as help with inflammatory skin conditions.
Analgesic Effects
CBG may have potential pain-relieving properties, as well.
Studies on animal models have demonstrated its ability to alleviate pain, possibly through its interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors and its activation of TRPV channels.
Antidepressant and Anxiolytic Effects
Some studies suggest that CBG may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by inhibiting the uptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, which play essential roles in mood regulation.
Thus, this minor cannabinoid may be a great option for when you need a mid-day pick-me-up but don’t want to get high or feel intoxicated — just more relaxed and at ease.
Anti-Tumor Effects
Some preclinical studies have shown that CBG may have potential anti-tumor properties, inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells in certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer and breast cancer.
However, of course, these findings are preliminary, and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of CBG in cancer treatment.
The Best CBG Products to Buy Today
If you’re interested in checking out what CBG products are on the market, we don’t blame you! And, even though cannabigerol is a somewhat rare cannabinoid, there are still plenty of options for you to choose from.
If you enjoy smoking, you can easily get your hands on some hemp CBG flower to grind and put it in bowls or joints. If you have a medical card, you can purchase cannabis strains with high CBG percentages to help you get a better, fuller smoking experience overall.
And if you don’t have your medical card yet but want one, we can help you get yours entirely online. Just click here.
On the other hand, there are plenty of non-smokeable CBG product options, too. You can easily find CBG oil or CBG tinctures, CBG topicals for your skin, or CBG edibles to munch on throughout the day.
Truly, this multi-faceted cannabinoid has an option for everyone.
Get Your Medical Card and Explore All Cannabinoids With Elevate Holistics
The 2018 Farm Bill has allowed for the introduction of various cannabinoids to the mainstream market.
However, the best way to get the highest-quality, most potent, and highly regulated products is through a licensed dispensary with your medical card.
Medical marijuana cards save you both time and money, as MMJ cardholders receive priority service (like access to shorter lines or cannabis delivery), as well as much lower prices (everyday discounts and low to no taxes compared to recreational consumers).
Plus, you have the chance to buy top-shelf product options with cannabinoids as rare as CBG.
So, what is CBG good for? Find out for yourself and get a medical card 100% online from Elevate Holistics by clicking here or pressing the button below.
